"Good morning, class" said Mr. Aron.
"Today we have a visitor."
Jada looked up.
The visitor was Miss Santiago, the school nurse.
"Is somebody sick?" asked Paul.
The nurse smiled and shook her head.
"I'm here to talk about food allergies."
"Ooh!" Mike waved his arm.
"I'm allergic to peanuts!"
"I'm allergic to shrimp," said Matt.
"I can't eat eggs," said Jennifer.
"My sister is allergic to tree nuts," said Jada.
"What happens if you eat these things?" asked Miss Santiago.
"I get a bad stomachache," said Matt.
"Then I throw up!"
"I get itchy," said Jennifer.
"Are food allegies dangerous?" asked Carly.
"They can be dangerous," said the nurse.
"Some kids have severe allergies.
Foods can stop their breathing.
But there's medicine to help."
Jennifer raised her hand.
"If you're allergic to foods, what can you do?"
"Good question, Jennifer," said Miss Santiago.
"Anyone have an idea?
How can you protect yourself?"
"Always check food labels," said Carly.
"Don't trade food with other kids," said Mike.
"Carry your allergy medicine everywhere!" said Jada.
"Great ideas!" said Miss Santiago.
"You must also speak up.
Tell teachers and friends.
Make sure everyone knows about your allergy.
That will keep you healthy."
Paul raised his hand.
"I have a severe allergy.
But it's not a food allergy."
"What is it then, Paul?" asked Mr. Aron.
Paul grinned.
"Ah-choo! I'm allergic to homework!"